12th Knot

12th Knot is best described as a glamorous, glass-encased rooftop playground that serves as a front-row seat to the London skyline. Perched on the 12th floor of the Sea Containers London hotel on the South Bank, it offers an energetic and eclectic atmosphere that feels far more vibrant than a typical hotel bar. The space is designed to maximize its location, functioning as a "glass box" filled with plush velvet seating, bright greenery, and an open-plan layout that draws your eye immediately to the panoramic windows. Here are the defining characteristics of the experience: The main attraction is undoubtedly the view across the River Thames. The outdoor terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows offer a stunning, direct line of sight to St Paul’s Cathedral and the City of London, making it a prime spot for sunset drinks. Vibrant Atmosphere: It strikes a balance between a chic lounge and a party venue. While relaxed during early evenings (often with "Wine Down Wednesdays"), the energy ramps up later in the week with live music and DJs from Thursday through Saturday, transforming it into a lively spot for dancing. The menu focuses on high-end cocktails with seasonal ingredients and an extensive champagne list. Food is served as "bar bites" or sharing plates—think lobster rolls and sliders—rather than sit-down meals, reinforcing the social, mingling vibe. Reflecting its stylish setting, the venue enforces a smart casual dress code (no sportswear or flip-flops), attracting a well-dressed crowd of after-work professionals and socialites. The staff were all fantastic with me, whenever I needed a drink they had a smile on their face and made my drink as quickly as possible. Every question or help I needed they acted with great haste. They're great. I had a lovely time on 12th knot. I'll definitely come back again 😊

Lovely rooftop spot for a relaxed cocktail hour. The atmosphere is the real draw here—great views, stylish decor, and an upbeat vibe that feels perfect for pre-dinner drinks or sunset cocktails. The drink menu is fun and well-curated, and everything we tried was well made. Music can get a bit loud at times, but it adds to the lively energy rather than detracting from it. Overall, a great place to enjoy a drink with a view.

We just had a drink as a couple and it was lovely. The place is nice and service is good. You have the view on London and see the skyline during the evening. Definitely recommend for a drink. Music might be a bit loud for certain person but you can easily discuss.

Attended a 40th birthday here and the food, drinks, atmosphere were top tier. Even had the added bonus of a photo booth. Only a short walk from Blackfriars station.

The DJ was on point! Playing great tracks and adding to the atmosphere. Nice rooftop spot with lovely views. The cocktails were strong and tasty. The tables are for a limited time (we booked online). The food was warm to cold but I would go again and try something else to see if it was just what I ordered or a pattern.

I recently was lucky enough to photograph a wedding reception in this beautiful space, and it was the most incredible backdrop for a wedding celebration! The food was phenomenal. The views are absolutely breathtaking from the deck and is so wonderfully central for people from all over London to easily travel to!

Would never set foot in this place again. Turned up for a friends birthday drink and was immediately treated like i was a dangerous terrorist by the intimidating security men , there to lean in to the faux sophistication. Told them three times who i was there to see, (including the full name of my friend) they checked the list to confirm my party was there. Once they breathed out from the "terrorist threat" (or whatever made up scenario was going through their paranoid minds) they offered to show me to their table. I said i wanted to go to the loo first and i'd be able to find them just fine. (it's a plain room with a decent view of the river - not a complex labyrinth) Came out of the loo to find a giant security guard waiting to confront me to ask me what i was doing there!! I was astonished...genuinely couldn't believe their attitude and asked them if they wanted me to leave. I can't prove the dark colour of my skin and the fact i'm a man triggered all this ridiculous paranoia and over-the-top intimidating goon-squad behaviour ( i told them it was easier to get into parliament than in their bar), but it's a hard for me to imagine a young, blonde blue-eyed woman being treated the same way. I caught up with my friends but didn't spend a penny in there (apart from the loo visit, of course!). I would never ever return. "Down with this sort of thing" as Farther Ted would say.

We didn't eat so cannot comment. Arrived early evening, the place was empty. Met by a beautiful young lady who escorted us to a table. The view is beautiful. Within minutes the place starts filling up, with lots of people, mainly for the view. I had a mocktail( I forget the name but it had ginger beer) it was delicious. So refreshing in the warm weather. A classy yet relaxed atmosphere. Enough staff to attend to everyone's needs but not overbearing. Nice place for a date night, business meeting or to Impress.